Thousands of interested spectators visited the town of Bucksport on Saturday, July 10 to view the Tall Ship Nao Santa Maria. The maritime attraction drew guests from around the state who enjoyed the welcoming hospitality of the small riverfront community and the spectacular views of the ship against the background of Fort Knox and the towering Penobscot Narrows Bridge. Local businesses were busy. The waterfront was alive with activity. The Santa Maria will be in Bucksport until it departs on Wednesday, July 14.

Bucksport will also be hosting a downtown festival on Saturday, July 17, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., featuring live music, displays, cornhole tournament, merchant specials, movie on the sails and fireworks over Fort Knox.

The Town of Orrington continues their Old Home Week events through July 24. Maritime history presentations, bean suppers, the Fire & Rescue Open House, an ice cream social, the annual Elder’s Tea, a whiffle ball tournament, the live-action hands-on Remote Control Expo and more round out their festivities.

Searsport is looking forward to hosting the events planned for July 18. For several years Searsport recognized its maritime heritage with events organized by Selectman Jack Merithew, now deceased. He was also a co-chairman of Searsport’s 175th Anniversary Committee before his passing. The Town of Searsport looked forward to this event to be held in his honor. Shipping has always been and continues to be a great part of who they are as a community. The events in Searsport, including live music, food trucks and picnic in the park, movie on the sails and more, will be held in Mosman Park, from 12 noon - 9:15 p.m., culminating with a fireworks show over the harbor.